Sizzling Bourbon BBQ Bacon (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Meatball Base
01 -
450 g lean ground beef
02 -
60 g breadcrumbs (panko or gluten-free)
03 -
25 g grated Parmesan cheese
04 -
60 g finely chopped onion
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
60 ml BBQ sauce
07 -
30 ml bourbon
08 -
1 egg
09 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Add-ins
10 -
115 g shredded cheddar cheese
11 -
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
→ Garnish
12 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Set the oven temperature to 200°C to ensure even cooking and a crisp exterior on the meatballs.
02 -
In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, BBQ sauce, bourbon, egg, salt, and pepper until just combined to avoid toughness.
03 -
Fold the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture to incorporate flavorful pockets.
04 -
Form the mixture into 3.8 cm (1.5 inch) diameter meatballs, wetting hands slightly to prevent sticking.
05 -
Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 71°C.
06 -
Brush additional BBQ sauce onto meatballs in the last few minutes of baking for a sticky glaze.
07 -
Allow meatballs to rest briefly out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Avoid overmixing the meat to maintain tenderness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature of 71°C.
02 -
For leaner alternatives, substitute ground turkey or chicken, and consider whole wheat breadcrumbs or vegetable add-ins for moisture.